Set in Bologna during the 1920s, pic concerns the arduous romantic education of a young nerdy professor who falls in love with a blind femme fatale.

Produced by Avati’s Rome-based Duea Films shingle and RAI Cinema, the latest work from the prolific director has grossed more than $2.6 million in Italy after being released in January.

Since the film unspooled at Cannes, rights have been picked up by the U.K.’s Axiom Films and by France’s Ocean Films. Film also screened at the Montreal and Toronto fests.

Several of Avati’s previous works have been released Stateside including, most recently, “The Best Man” and “Story of Boys and Girls.” In his long career, Avati has helmed more than 30 titles.

Producer Antonio Avati, the director’s brother, said Northern Arts will hold private screenings of “A Heart Is Elsewhere” in November for Golden Globes consideration and then release it in key U.S. cities before the end of the year.